Why a hatchback? The hatch increases the cargo capacity to 22.7 cubic feet, an increase from the 2015 Cruze sedan, which only had 15 cubic feet. In addition, it is 200 pounds lighter than the previous sedan version.

Having a hatchback version of the Chevy Cruze also helps GM compete with other compacts that come in both sedan and hatch versions. “With 9 percent market growth in small hatchbacks last year, it’s the perfect time to bring the Cruze Hatch to America,” said Alan Batey, president of General Motors North America.

Both versions of the Cruze will debut this year, but the sedan will be in the early spring, and the hatch in the fall. Both will have a new 1.4-liter four cylinder engine with stop-start technology. Both the sedan and hatchback versions will be able to get up to 40 mpg on the highway.

Either version of the vehicle is a great option, but it is nice to have a choice in style and space. Stop by El Dorado Chevrolet to test drive the new hatchback Cruze or the traditional sedan Cruze.